Waiting For Your Miracle

About the Book

“Waiting for Your Miracle” is a moving memoir that chronicles Mark and Paris’s life changing journey of faith, resilience, and healing. Faced with a life-altering heart condition, Mark’s unwavering belief in God’s power and Paris’s steadfast support shine through in every page. Their story is one of overcoming fear through trust in divine intervention, embracing modern medicine while anchoring their lives in scripture, and finding strength in the love of family and community. This inspiring narrative not only reveals the raw, personal challenges of facing uncertainty but also offers a roadmap for anyone seeking hope and guidance during life’s toughest trials. Whether you are looking for encouragement in the midst of hardship or practical insights to deepen your spiritual journey, “Waiting for Your Miracle” will inspire you to trust in God’s plan and believe that your own miracle is on the way.

About the Author

Dr. Mark A. McConnell was born on February 7, 1963, and raised in Kansas City, Kansas, by devoted Christian parents. From a young age, his faith was central to his life, accepting Christ at the tender age of five. Dr. McConnell’s foundational spiritual upbringing was nurtured at Mt. Zion Baptist Church under the guidance of Dr. C.L. Bachus. He pursued higher education with a commitment to his calling, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Religion and Philosophy from Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, in 1986. He continued his theological education, receiving a Master of Divinity from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1989 and completing a Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) in May 2002. Dr. McConnell has been blessed with a beautiful family. He married Paris McConnell, his steadfast partner and source of strength, on September 2, 1989. Together, they have three sons—Moses, Caleb, and Matthew—and are proud grandparents to Jayden and Jordan McConnell. Answering the call to preach, Dr. McConnell delivered his first sermon in May 1984 and was ordained in August 1985. His pastoral journey has included leading three congregations: Southside First Baptist Church in Kansas City, Missouri; Prince of Peace Baptist Church in Peoria, Illinois; and currently, New Cornerstone Baptist Church in Peoria, Illinois. His service extends beyond the pulpit, having served two terms as Moderator of the Central Illinois Baptist District Association in Peoria, Illinois. His involvement with the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois spans over 31 years, during which he has held significant positions, including 2nd Vice President of both the Baptist General Congress of Christian Education and the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois. Dr. McConnell’s dedication and unwavering commitment have led to his current role as President of the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois. His passion for this esteemed body is evident in his consistent participation, having never missed a board meeting, annual session, or Congress of Christian Education. He firmly believes that God has positioned him to lead and serve, fostering unity and growth within the convention. Dr. McConnell’s vision is clear: to uphold and advance the legacy of the Baptist General State Convention of Illinois, continuing its history as a leading force among state conventions. Through dedication and collective effort, he is confident that this convention will remain a beacon of leadership, faith, and service. Paris Elaine Riddle-McConnell native of Kansas City, MO. third child of six to parents Buddy & Delores (Chatman) Riddle. Married Dr. Mark A. McConnell September 2, 1989. Proud Mother of three sons Mark Allen Moses, Caleb Allen Mark, and Matthew Allen. A Delighted grandmother of Jayden & Jordan Active member of New Cornerstone Baptist Church. Youth Director, Married Couples Ministry and Outreach Coordinator for social media and new membership. Active member of Baptist General State Convention Minister’s Wives Fellowship and Woman’s Auxiliary. Central Baptist District Association and Peoria Area Community Service: Paris has been a community volunteer since the age of ten alongside of her parents in Kansas City with Freedom Inc.-a political action foundation formed to register and increase Africa- American voter participation. Additionally, American Red Cross & Thornberry Boys & Girls Club KCMO through College. She Continues community service in Peoria since 1993 by serving on several Board of Directors: Peoria Public Schools, PTO President at Whittier Primary & Peoria High School, Manual High School, Advisory Board, American Red Cross Advisory Board, Juvenile Justice Council, Safe to Live Commission-Center for Prevention of Abuse, CASA of Peoria County and Peoria Highway Credit Union as Board Chairman for 2 years. Professional Accomplishments: Retirement Account Investment Manager for Fidelity Security Life Insurance, Equipment Buyer for Burmah Oil-Kansas City Graphics Division, Department & Office Manager Macys Midwest, Illinois Department of Transportation Community Relations/Legislative Liaison to Governor’s Office, Project Manager & Media Consultant for RSVP Executive Services, Civic Engagement Manager for Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs and currently, External Affairs manager for Office of Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. Education: Paseo High School and Penn Valley Community College, Kansas City, MO, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS- Business Administration/Accounting Memberships: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, Professional Businesswomen-KCMO, WTS-Women in Transportation Society, Illinois Association of Highway Engineers, NAACP, IMAG-Illinois Minorities in Government, Peoria Downtown Rotary Club, West Bluff Council, Peoria Public School Board member. Favorite Scripture: For it is God which works in you to will and do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputing: that you may be blameless and harmless, sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a cooked and perverse nation among whom you shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain. Philippians 2:13-